True Cost Guide Kitchens Install a Deep Freezer

How Much Does a Deep Freezer Cost to Install?

Q: How long do chest freezers last?

Chest freezers typically last between 15 to 20 years . Upright freezers can have a life span of around 10 to 15 years, but chest freezers typically last longer because they have fewer issues, like leaks and overheating. Common signs your freezer is dying can include condensation buildup, excessive heat from the motor, spoiled food, your freezer running, or your unit freezing shut because of an ice buildup. Appliance repair costs can add up if you don’t spot the signs of failure.

Q: Do chest freezers use a lot of electricity?

An Energy Star -certified chest freezer can use around 215 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, which adds up to about $30 a year. Upright freezers that are Energy Star-certified use around 395 kWh of electricity, costing about $50 a year to run. Your HVAC system makes up around 45% to 50% of your home’s electrical use, while a refrigerator accounts for approximately 8% of your electric bill.

Typical Range:

$180 - $2,000

Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.

Updated October 27, 2022

Written by HomeAdvisor.

The cost of a deep freezer typically ranges between $300 and $2,000 or an average of $350, including the cost of the deep freezer and labor. Deep freezers can cost as little as $150 and as much as $2,000, with deep freezer prices varying based on the size of the unit, whether it’s a chest or upright freezer, and if installation requires additional electrical work.

Average Deep Freezer Costs

Average Cost	High Cost	Low Cost
$350	$2,000	$150

Chest Freezer Cost by Size

The cost of a chest freezer will vary based on its capacity and the make of the freezer. A larger chest freezer typically costs more than smaller freezers. Picking the size of a freezer will depend on how much you want to spend and how much storage space you need.

The table below shows common sizes for chest freezers and their average prices:

Chest Freezer Size by Cu. Ft.	Average Cost
3 – 5	$300
5 – 7	$340
7 – 9	$360
9 – 11	$800
13 – 16	$780
16+	$950

Chest Freezer Features by Budget

How much does a deep freezer cost? It depends on the type of deep freezer you’re looking for and how big of a freezer you need. Take a look at the price ranges for affordable, mid-range, and high-end deep freezers.

Affordable

Affordable chest freezers typically start at $300. It’s possible to find chest freezers with as much capacity as 7 cubic feet, but most in the price range will fall between 3 to 5 cubic feet.

Mid-Range

The cost of chest freezers considered mid-range will typically run between $500 and $700 and have more capacity than affordable models.

High-End

High-end chest freezers and large-capacity chest freezers cost around $750 and range to more than $1,000. High-end chest freezers usually have a capacity greater than 7 cubic feet.

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Upright vs. Chest Freezers

Upright freezers typically cost slightly more than chest freezers because they have more capacity than chest freezers. For example, a 3.5-cubic-foot chest freezer costs around $350, while a 3.1-cubic-foot upright freezer costs around $370. Most upright freezers start at around $1,000 with a 20-cubic-foot capacity.

Deep Freezer Installation Cost Factors

Deep freezer installation costs can vary depending on where you plan to place the freezer. Common factors include insulation, pest control, junk removal fees for an old freezer, electrical work, trim kit, air filters, and inspections.

Insulation and Pest Control

Insulation costs between $0.20 and $2 per square foot, depending on the type of insulation you use. Insulation helps create an enclosed condition for the freezer to regulate the air temperature in the garage, where most homeowners place their deep freezer.

If you plan on placing a deep freezer in your garage, ensure temperatures in your garage don’t reach above 110 degrees Fahrenheit or below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Otherwise, you risk damaging the freezer. A freezer repair costs between $200 and $300.

Pest control costs between $100 and $200 when using a pro. If you worry about insects or unwanted animals getting into your garage or another place you decide to place your freezer, you might want to do some preventive pest control. Pests, especially rodents, like to chew on exposed wires and often seek warm spaces when cold weather approaches.

Hauling Away an Old Freezer

If you choose to have a pro haul an old freezer away, expect to pay between $130 and $370. You can haul away an old freezer on your own if you have a large vehicle, but you’ll likely have to pay a disposal fee.

Extra Outlet

The cost to install an electrical outlet is around $220 to have a pro do the work. Electricians typically recommend that freezers run on their own dedicated 120-volt circuit, and it’s also best practice to use a ground-fault circuit interrupter outlet to prevent any issues. Some also recommend connecting your freezer to a backup generator to ensure no food will spoil during a power outage.

Trim Kit

Trim kits can cost between $200 and $500, depending on the look you want and if you plan on installing your freezer inside your home and want it to blend in.

Air Filter

Air filters cost between $10 and $50 and need changing every six months. A refrigerator air filter does exactly what its name indicates: It filters the air inside your fridge, ensuring the air passed around is fresh. This consequently preserves your food for longer.

Professional Inspection

A professional inspection can cost $100 to $150 when you want to have a professional inspect your home to ensure the electrical components work properly if you’ve added an electrical outlet.

DIY Deep Freezer Installation vs. Hiring a Pro

Provided you have a dedicated 120-volt circuit for your freezer, it’s possible to DIY install a deep freezer. But if you need to add an electrical outlet, it’s best to find a local licensed electrician. An electrician can cost around $40 to $100 per hour, and installing an outlet can cost $220.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do chest freezers last?

Chest freezers typically last between 15 to 20 years. Upright freezers can have a life span of around 10 to 15 years, but chest freezers typically last longer because they have fewer issues, like leaks and overheating.

Common signs your freezer is dying can include condensation buildup, excessive heat from the motor, spoiled food, your freezer running, or your unit freezing shut because of an ice buildup. Appliance repair costs can add up if you don’t spot the signs of failure.

Are chest freezers worth it?

Chest freezers can prove their worth if you cook a lot and need additional freezer space. Chest freezers are particularly valuable for storing bulky items, like items for soup stock or meat, plus they’re generally more energy-efficient than upright freezers. A more energy-efficient appliance can translate into a lower energy bill, especially if replacing an older appliance with a new one. New fridge installation costs are between $500 and $12,000, depending on the size and model you choose.

Where should I install a chest freezer?

A basement provides an ideal space for a chest freezer because it’ll rest in a climate-controlled space. Some people like installing a chest freezer in a garage, but it can present some issues if it isn’t climate-controlled. Having a chest freezer in a garage can also expose your food to pests that might try to find a warm space during the winter. They can gnaw on wires, damaging your appliance. A refrigerator repair costs around $200 to $330.

Do chest freezers use a lot of electricity?

An Energy Star-certified chest freezer can use around 215 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity annually, which adds up to about $30 a year. Upright freezers that are Energy Star-certified use around 395 kWh of electricity, costing about $50 a year to run. Your HVAC system makes up around 45% to 50% of your home’s electrical use, while a refrigerator accounts for approximately 8% of your electric bill.